Supertram supporting Support Dogs on our network

At Supertram, we’re proud to support Support Dogs, a life-changing charity with local hubs near Carbrook and a new site being built in Hillsborough. The charity trains specialist assistance dogs to help people with a number of medical conditions, including epilepsy, autism, and disability, live safer, more independent lives across our region and beyond.

Dogs are close to our hearts more than ever. Following a successful consultation and trial, pet dogs are now permanently allowed on board, and in the past year, we’ve welcomed over 10,000 pet dogs on the network, reflecting our commitment to making travel inclusive and customer-focused.
 

Support Dogs, Louis and Garry, in training at Cathedral tram stop.

How the dogs are trained on Supertram

As part of their journey to becoming fully qualified assistance dogs, many of them train right here on the Supertram network, learning how to travel safely and confidently on trams, just as they will with their future owners.

Training is carefully planned to build confidence step by step. Dogs are gradually introduced to:
•    Watching trams arrive and depart
•    Spending time at tram stops to get used to the sights and sounds
•    Boarding for short journeys of a couple of stops
•    Positive reinforcement after each session to build confidence

This helps prepare them for real-life travel with their future owners, many of whom rely on public transport every day.

By working together, we’re helping ensure assistance dogs are calm, confident and ready to support greater independence across our communities.

Danny Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Support Dogs said:
“Partners like Supertram are so important to helping our dogs learn to work and prepare for life as assistance dogs in the wider world”.

If you see a Support Dog on board
You may notice a Support Dog travelling or training on our trams. Here’s how you can help:
•    Please don’t distract them while they’re working. Assistance dogs need to stay focused on their job
•    If you’d like to say hello, always ask first. Speak to the trainer or owner before approaching, every dog and situation is different
•    Need space? Just ask. If a dog is lying in your way, politely ask the trainer or owner to move them
•    Any concerns while on board? Speak to an onboard Conductor, they’re happy to help

A little understanding makes a big difference. By respecting working assistance dogs, you’re helping them support someone’s independence and safety.
 

We’re proud to play a small part in the life-changing work Support Dogs do, and to ensure our network remains welcoming and accessible for everyone.

For more information about accessible travel, visit our web page or download our leaflet (PDF 2.8MB).